The Chicago Bears and star cornerback Jaylen Johnson have agreed to a four-year, $76 million contract that includes $54 million in guaranteed money, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter and Jeremy Fowler.
Johnson is guaranteed $43.8 million at signing and will receive $28 million in the first year of the deal, according to sources.
The Bears placed the non-exclusive rights tag on Johnson on Tuesday, but general manager Ryan Boles expressed confidence last week that the two sides could reach a long-term deal.
Johnson's contract is the third significant defensive investment by the Bears. Defensive end in trade with Washington commanders.
Johnson, who turned 25 in April, was named second-team All-Pro and earned Pro Bowl honors last season when he produced a career-high four interceptions (including a pick-six), 10 passes defended, one forced fumble and 36 tackles.
Johnson, the 50th overall pick in the 2020 draft, played out the fourth year of his rookie deal after being unable to sign an extension with Chicago before the 2023 season. In July 2023, Johnson said he understood at the time — an interruption in his first three seasons — his lack of on-field accolades — that commanding a contract at the top of the market was a challenge for him.
After Dallas Cowboys cornerback Trevon Diggs signed a five-year, $97 million extension in training camp, Johnson noted the deal would benefit the entire defensive end market, but didn't believe it would affect his negotiations with Chicago.
ESPN's Courtney Cronin contributed to this report.
